Meaningful Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

(September 2017) Preparation is the key to a successful interview. Once they’re done asking about your work history and qualifications, most interviewers will ask if you have any questions for them. This is not the time to ask about vacations or your salary. Instead, plan a few meaningful questions ahead of time. Here are some suggestions.

If hired, what do I need to accomplish in my first 6-12 months to be a success and have an impact?

The answer to this question will help you gauge the expectations for the new hire. Some interviewers might not be prepared to answer this question, which could mean they are just looking for someone to fill a timesheet. If the interviewer responds with specific needs and goals, it could be a sign of a worthwhile career opportunity. Asking this question can also give you an opportunity to discuss how you are prepared to achieve those goals.

What will the company look like in a year? From any perspective – product, people, team?

According toTimeInc.net, the answer will allow you to discern whether a company has true vision. Is the interviewer rambling? It the answer delusional? Does it all make sense and tie to the data and learnings you have so far? As a new hire, it’s good to learn how you will fit into the team before accepting a job offer. This question will assist in accomplishing that task.

What is your timeline for deciding on this position?

At the end of the interview you should ask what the next step in the hiring process will be. "Never leave an interview without finding out the company's timeline for making a decision and determining when and how you should follow up afterwards about your candidacy,” according toFortune.com.

These are just a few ideas. There are many other meaningful questions you can ask during an interview.Click here for more.